Large construction projects are making significant strides at four Michigan state park campgrounds. These closures have left campers eager to return, and with the ability to make reservations six months in advance, there's already a buzz about potential opening dates. Let's take a closer look at the updates from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Witness the Transformation of Michigan State Park Campgrounds

Algonac State Park

The campground at Algonac State Park has been closed to bring about some exciting changes. Some sites are being converted to full-hookup and the roads are being repaved. Most of the punch list items have been completed, with only minor work like pavement repair remaining. This work is weather-dependent and might be pushed to spring. The anticipated reopening dates are March 22 for the Riverfront campground and May 15 for the Wagon Wheel campground. The 127 new full-hookup sites in the Riverfront campground are numbered from 10-12, 14-76, 79-80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 117-151, 195, 197, 199, 201, 203, 205, 207, 209, 211, and 213-220. The park users are sure to be delighted with the new roads, expanded sanitation station, and full hook-up camping sites.

The transformation at Algonac State Park is truly remarkable. It shows the dedication of the DNR in improving the camping experience for visitors. These upgrades will enhance the overall enjoyment of staying at the park and make it an even more attractive destination.

Ludington State Park

In Ludington State Park, three campgrounds closed in September to pave the main road and Hamlin Lake day-use area parking lot, expand the Lake Michigan parking lot and warming shelters, and enhance traffic and pedestrian flow at the park entrance. The project has been progressing well, with few interruptions due to the great weather in October and November. All site grading is close to finish grade and waiting for asphalt. Much of the concrete work is complete, and the crew is continuing their work this week. The base course of asphalt is down at the entrance, the warming shelter parking lot, and the Lake Michigan beach parking lot. At the last progress meeting, the project was 70% complete. However, due to weather and asphalt plant openings, the anticipated reopening is still July 1. The park, located north of the Sable River, is also undergoing construction and will remain closed through the winter.

The construction efforts in Ludington State Park are extensive and will bring significant improvements to the park. The expanded parking lots and enhanced traffic flow will make it more convenient for visitors to enjoy the park's amenities. The completion of these projects will enhance the park's appeal and provide a better camping experience.

Pinckney State Recreation Area

The Bruin Lake modern campground at Pinckney State Recreation Area in Gregory has been closed for upgrades. The sanitation station, north toilet and shower building, and park roads are being renovated. The replacement of the shower and toilet building started in October and is expected to be completed in July. So far, the building has been removed, and footing and foundation forms are being set. Repaving of the campground entrance road and remaining loops will begin in April and be completed in July, along with drainage upgrades. The relocation of the sanitation station will also start in April and finish in July. Additionally, the park's Silver Lake day use area is under construction and scheduled to be completed by the end of May. Renovations to the beach concessions building started in October and should be finished by April.

The upgrades at Pinckney State Recreation Area are essential for improving the facilities and services offered to campers. These projects will enhance the comfort and convenience of staying at the park and ensure a more enjoyable camping experience.

Port Crescent State Park

The modern campground at Port Crescent State Park closed for an enhancement project that includes new roads, water and sewer lines, electrical, and a sanitation station. The work is on track for a June 27 reopening, which depends on DTE completing a power upgrade on time. The campground will have 12 new full-hookup sites, with ten located near the entrance and two at the far end. The addition of these new facilities, such as the expanded sanitation station with three lanes, improved ADA campsites, new roads, and outdoor showers, will make the park even more appealing to campers.

The construction at Port Crescent State Park is set to bring a fresh look and improved amenities to the campground. These upgrades will enhance the camping experience and provide campers with more convenience and comfort.

These four state park campgrounds are undergoing significant transformations, and the efforts are well underway. Campers can look forward to enjoying these improved facilities in the coming months.